Got it right (From Barry And District News)

Got it right

IN MAY 1988 an agreement was reached for an immediate upgrading of King Square, Barry.

Joint talks between the Vale Borough Council and South Glamorgan County Council produced a scheme costing £250,000, with 75 percent of the cost being met from a Welsh Office grant under its Urban Aid Programme.

An illustration of the "new look" King Square appeared in the press, complete with trees, flowers, seating and fountains.

It was greeted with enthusiasm by some as a catalyst for regeneration of the town centre.

By others, it seemed ridiculous to spend that much money on the square when Barry Town Hall was neglected for want of cash investment.

The recent removal of the fountains caused almost as much excitement as when Saddam's statue was toppled, and the "gift wrapped" town hall is an increasing source of interest to shoppers.

Once more, those phrases are being trotted out: "catalyst for regeneration", "cultural centre", "focus of pride".

Only this time Barry Citizens' Action Group think that the authority has got it right.

Dilys Colbourne, Secretary, Barry Citizens' Action Group, 3 Crossfield Road, Barry